DRC: High tension in Goma following attack July 24

Event

On the evening (local time) of Tuesday, July 23, unidentified armed men killed at least three people in the village of Turunga, adjacent to the city of Goma (North Kivu province), prompting local residents to protest in Goma on Wednesday, July 24, to denounce an increase in criminal attacks in the area. Local residents erected roadblocks on the Mutinga-Kilijiwe road, as well as on the Entrée président-Turunga road. A number of security forces have been deployed in the city to clear roads, however sporadic protests are persisting.

Further such attacks and related protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, including North Kivu, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias) have led to continued insecurity in the area. Humanitarian organizations have stated that security conditions in the Kivu regions present a major obstacle to delivering humanitarian assistance to those in need, as kidnappings, including of Congolese and foreign aid workers, are frequent in the area.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province, notably in Goma, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for criminal activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.